Welsh Liberal Democrats

Welsh Liberal Democrat members have today pledged their unequivocal commitment to keep S4C's budget ring-fenced as well as for the channel to maintain its independence. Members overwhelmingly voted to pass a policy motion which reiterates the party's support for the Welsh language channel.

The motion also stated that the new governance structure for S4C should be enshrined in law as a charter and the channel will work as a partner of the BBC, not a subsidiary of it, with guarantees of operational independence.

Welsh Liberal Democrat Parliamentarians in the House of Commons and the House of Lords have been fighting hard to secure the future of S4C.

Mark Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Ceredigion, commented:

"I'm thrilled that Welsh Liberal Democrat members have displayed such solidarity on this issue, once again showing that we are the party standing up for Welsh language broadcasting.

"The funding for S4C needs to be ring-fenced in order for the future of the channel to be safeguarded. It is vital S4C continues to have financial security so that it can maintain its editorial and operational independence.

"It is a channel for the people of Wales that is integral to our culture and plays a key role in promoting the Welsh language. The Welsh Liberal Democrats will continue to fight for the best possible protection for S4C."